Top Modern-Day Female Mystery Writers Every Aspiring Author Should Read

Explore must-read modern mystery writers like Tana French, Gillian Flynn, and more.

Mystery writing is an art that demands a blend of suspense, intellectual puzzles, and brilliant storytelling. For aspiring authors in the genre, the path to success is often paved by the works of those who have mastered the craft. In this article we'll list some of our favorite modern-day female mystery writers we recommend you check out.

1. Tana French:

Tana French has established herself as a modern icon in the mystery genre. Her psychological thrillers are intricately woven tales that delve deep into the human psyche. With vivid descriptions, multi-layered characters, and plots that twist and turn, French's works, such as "In the Woods" and "The Secret Place," will leave you in awe of her storytelling prowess. Her ability to explore the darkest corners of the human mind makes her an exceptional author to learn from.

2. Gillian Flynn:

Gillian Flynn's name is synonymous with gripping, dark narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Best known for her worldwide bestseller "Gone Girl," Flynn masterfully crafts complex, morally ambiguous characters and weaves intricate webs of deceit. Her ability to create unreliable narrators and deliver shocking plot twists makes her a true master of the genre. As an aspiring mystery writer, delving into Flynn's works, such as "Sharp Objects" and "Dark Places," will undoubtedly sharpen your storytelling skills.

3. Louise Penny:

Louise Penny has captured the hearts of readers with her beloved Inspector Gamache series. Set in the picturesque village of Three Pines, Penny's novels, including "Still Life" and "A Trick of the Light," offer a unique blend of mystery, character development, and a touch of Canadian charm. Penny's intricate plots and deeply emotional narratives demonstrate her ability to create a compelling mystery while exploring the depths of human nature. Her works are a masterclass in crafting engaging, multi-dimensional characters that readers will remember long after the last page.

4. Paula Hawkins:

Paula Hawkins burst onto the scene with her international bestseller "The Girl on the Train." Her atmospheric thrillers are known for their skillful manipulation of perspectives, unreliable narrators, and an uncanny ability to explore the darker aspects of human relationships. Hawkins' subsequent novels, such as "Into the Water," further solidified her position as a leading figure in contemporary mystery writing. Aspiring authors will find inspiration in her gripping narratives and her knack for building tension.

5. Attica Locke:

Attica Locke combines the elements of mystery with social commentary, creating powerful narratives that resonate with readers. Her novels, including "Black Water Rising" and "Bluebird, Bluebird," tackle complex issues such as racial tension, corruption, and justice. Locke's ability to seamlessly blend thrilling plots with thought-provoking themes makes her an essential writer to study for aspiring authors seeking to infuse depth into their mystery storytelling.